Clamping Device

ABSTRACT

A clamping device having a first jaw coupled to a first tube member oriented along an axis, a second jaw coupled to a second tube member oriented along the axis, wherein said first and second jaws are coplaner, and an expansion means allowing for adjustment of the first and second jaws. The clamping device may also include a lever configured to provide coarse adjustment of a separation distance of the first and second jaws, the lever is coupled to the first tube member. Further, the clamping device may include a knob configured to provide fine adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws, and a coupling, coupled to the first tube member, configured to receive an attachment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to clamping devices and more particularly to an adjustable clamping device with replaceable attachments.

BACKGROUND

Conventional clamping devices are well known for securing objects in a fixed position. These clamps are generally specialized for particular applications, such as manufacturing, construction, etc. However, some specialized designs may limit functionality of these clamps.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,991,809 to Harkey teaches a musical instrument support employing a type of clamping mechanism. The device as taught by Harkey includes a pair of clips which may be secured to a structure by an elastomeric member, such as leather. However, the support adjustment as taught by Harkey is limited in its ability to mount to a variety of structures. For example, the support as taught by Harkey may not allow for mounting to the side of a structure. Further, the connection as taught by Harkey limits the position of a clamping device to one or more structures. The clips of Harkey would not allow for coupling to some flat surfaces. Further, such a coupling as taught by Harkey would not be able to support objects to a variety of structures.

There is need for a clamping apparatus to allow for mounting to a variety of types of structures in a variety of positions.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed and claimed herein are clamping devices. In one embodiment, a clamping device includes a first jaw coupled to a first tube member oriented along an axis, a second jaw coupled to a second tube member oriented along the axis, wherein said first and second jaws are coplaner, and an expansion means allowing for adjustment of the first and second jaws. The clamping device further including a lever configured to provide coarse adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws, the lever coupled to the first tube member, a knob configured to provide fine adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws, and a coupling, coupled to the first tube member, configured to receive an attachment.

Other aspects, features, and techniques of the invention will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art in view of the following detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A depicts a clamping device according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1B depicts an exposed view of the clamping device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C depicts an expanded view of the clamping device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1D depicts a disassembled view of the clamping device of FIG. 1A; and

FIGS. 2A-2C depict applications of a clamping device according to one or more embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure relates generally to adjustable rigid clamping devices. In one embodiment, a clamping device comprises a first jaw and second jaw, wherein the distance of separation of the jaws may be adjusted by an adjustment means. The adjustment means may include a knob to allow for fine adjustment of the clamping device. In another embodiment, the adjustment means may include an adjustment lever to allow for coarse adjustment of the clamping device. The clamping device may be configured to receive one or more attachments.

A clamping device may be provided that may be rigidly secured to articles of a variety of shapes and sizes. In that fashion, the clamping device may be utilized for many applications. Further, the clamping device may include one or more attachments. The clamping device may be configured to support or arrange one or more objects, such as one or more of a stringed instrument, tool, beverage and objects in general. Similarly, the clamping device may be configured to support a plurality of objects.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1A is a diagram of a clamping device according to one or more embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment, clamping device 100 may be configured to adjustably mount to one or more structures. As shown in FIG. 1A, clamping device 100 includes first jaw 105 and second jaw 110 coupled to first tube 115 and second tube 120, respectively. First jaw 105 may be coupled to the first tube by collar 125. Similarly, second jaw 110 may be coupled to the second tube by collar 130. Collars 125 and 130 may allow for rotation of jaws 105 and 110, repetitively. For example, collar 125 may be configured to allow for rotation of jaw 105 with respect to the central axis of first tube 115. Alternatively, or in combination, jaw 105 may be rotated with respect collar 125. Jaw 110 may be rotated in a similar fashion. The first and second jaws 105 and 110 may comprise a notched surface. It may also be appreciated that jaws 105 and 110 may each comprise one or more prongs.

Clamping device 100 may be extended, and/or contracted, to modify the distance of separation for jaws 105 and 110. Lever 135 may be configured to release and secure the first tube 115 such that the clamping device 100 may be loosened and/or tightened. It may be appreciated that lever 135 may be configured to provide coarse adjustment of clamping device 100. As shown in FIG. 1A, lever 135 is shown in a non-depressed position. Clamping device 100 may be utilized by positioning jaws 105 and 110 on either side of an object to be clamped to as will be described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 2A-2C.

Clamping device 100 may further include knob 140. As shown in FIG. 1A, knob 140 may be configured to adjust the distance of jaws 105 and 110. Knob 140 may be configured to adjust clamping device 100 at a slower mechanical rate than lever 135. As such, knob 140 may be configured to allow for fine adjustment of clamping device 100. In certain embodiments, knob 140 may be configured to comprise an increased mechanical advantage to provide greater mechanical force than lever 135. In that fashion, clamping device 100 may be tightened and/or loosened. As will be described in further detail below, clamping device 100 may comprise means to extend and contract. Clamping device 100 may further include coupling 145 to receive one or more attachments. Coupling 145 may be configured to provide secure connection for one or more attachments in a fixed and/or rotatable fashion. Attachment 150 may be coupled to first tube 115 by coupling 145. As shown in FIG. 1A, attachment 150 corresponds to a yoke attachment. However, it may be appreciated that other types of attachments may be coupled to clamping device 100, including but not limited to ring shaped attachment, beverage holder, tool holster, instrument stand, etc. Attachment 150 may include rotatable bar 155 as a securing means. When clamping device 150 is used to support an object, rotatable bar 155 may be used to secure the object.

One advantage of clamping device 100 may be that additional weight may be supported by clamping device 100 than conventional devices. For example, at least one of jaws 105 and 110, knob 140, lever 135 and expansion means of clamping device 100 can allow for rigid clamping to a structure. Rigid clamping as may be provided by clamping device 100 may be appreciated when supporting valuable objects. Further, rigid clamping as may be provided by clamping device 100 may be required for particular structures.

Referring now to FIG. 1B, an exposed view is shown of clamping device 100 of FIG. 1A. As shown in FIG. 1B, clamping device 100 comprises an expansion means 160 configured to allow clamping device 100 to extend and/or contract in a fixed and a secured fashion. Expansion means 160 may relate to a threaded member. As such, it may be appreciated that lever 135 may be positioned to engage with expansion means 160 such that jaws 105 and 110 are held at a fixed distance in a secure manner. Lever 135 may comprise one or more grooves to engage with expansion means 160. Lever 135 may be depressed to disengage lever 135 from expansion means 160. In that fashion, clamping device 100 may be extended and/or contracted. Similarly, coarse adjustment of clamping device 100 may be performed using lever 135. In certain embodiments, clamping device 100 may be contracted without depressing lever 135. Expansion means 160 may be coupled to knob 140. Rotation of knob 140 will not affect the position or rotation of tube 120 according to another embodiment. In that fashion, by turning knob 140 in one direction, the clamping device may be expanded. Similarly, by turning knob 140 in the opposite direction, clamping device 100 may be contracted. Knob 140 may provide fine adjustment of clamping device 100 including compressing and/or releasing jaws 105 and 110. As such it may be appreciated that clamping device 100 may be tightened to be securely coupled to an structure as will be described below in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 1B, clamping device 100 may include inner tube member 165 disposed within the second tube member 120. Inner tube member 165 may provide one or more of a guide and spacer for expansion means 160. In one embodiment, expansion means 160 may relate to a threaded bar of a sufficiently rigid material, such as metal or plastic. It may also be appreciated that clamping device 100 may be expanded such that tubes 115 and 120 do not rotate relative to each other. Further, the geometry of tubes 115 and 120 can restrict rotation of jaw 105 and jaw 110. Clamping device 100 may comprise bushings and/or hardware to allow for such operation. Further, when clamping device 100 is extended, first tube 115 may separate from second tube 120. It may also be appreciated that either or both of first tube 115 and second tube 120 may move in relation to expansion means 160 according to another embodiment.

Referring now to FIG. 1C, an extended view is shown of clamping device 100 of FIG. 1A according to one or more embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 1C, clamping device 100 may be extended along the axis of expansion means 160 shown by direction 161. Extending clamping device 100 along direction 161 may be performed using lever 135 and/or knob 140. Attachment 150 may be rotated as shown by direction 162. In that fashion, clamping device 100 may be configured to support one or more objects in one or more mounting positions.

Referring now to FIG. 1D, a disassembled view is shown of clamping device 100 of FIG. 1A according to one or more embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 1D, clamping device 100 may comprise inner tube 165 having a diameter that fits within second tube 120 and can receive expansion means 160. Coupling 145 (not shown in FIG. 1D) may include a bushing assembly 170 to allow for rotation of attachment 150 coupled to clamping device 100. Coupling 145 may be configured to allow for quick connection and disconnection of attachment 150. It may be appreciated that coupling 145 may correspond to one of a male and female coupling. In a similar fashion, knob 140 may be coupled to second tube 120 by connection assembly 175. Connection assembly 175 may allow for rotation of knob 140, and coupling of knob 140 to expansion means 160 and second tube 120.

According to another embodiment, attachment 150 may include u-plate 180 to allow for coupling to bushing assembly 170. U-plate 180 may comprise a quick release fitting for coupling 145. Attachment 150 may further include tubing material 185 to provide grip for supporting an object by attachment 150. Bushing 190 may be used to position lever 135. Similarly, bushing 190 and slide ring 195 can allow for expansion and/or contraction of clamping device 100 about expansion means 160.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2C, exemplary illustrations are shown of the clamping device of FIG. 1A according to one or more embodiments. Referring first to FIG. 2A, clamping device 200 (e.g., clamping device 100) is shown coupled to speaker cabinet 220. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, clamping device comprises a yoke attachment 205 (e.g., attachment 150) and utility carrier 210. Yoke attachment 205 may be coupled to clamping device 200 such that stringed instrument 215 may be supported. As shown in FIG. 2A, the clamping device may be clamped to a lateral portion of speaker cabinet 220. By way of example, jaws of the clamping device may be tightened by at least one of a lever (e.g., lever 135) and knob (e.g., knob 140) of clamping device 200. In that fashion, clamping device may be securely fixed to the lateral portion of speaker cabinet 220. Clamping device 200 may be securely mounted for a desired height of a user. In that fashion, support of stringed instruments of different heights may be accommodated. It may also be appreciated that clamping device 200 may be securely clamped to the topmost portion of the speaker cabinet 220. Jaws of clamping device 200 may allow for coupling to flat and/or non-flat surfaces. Further, clamping device 200 may be coupled to speaker cabinet 220 in a secure fashion to withstand prolonged vibration. Clamping device 200 may include a utility carrier 210 employed to store one or more items.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, clamping device 200 is shown secured to step ladder 230. Additionally, clamping device 200 is shown supporting tool 225. Tool 225 may be securely supported by attachment 205 of clamping device 200. Tool 225 may be coupled to clamping device 200 by a rotatable bar (e.g., rotatable bar 155) (not shown). Attachment 205 may be uncoupled from clamping device 200 while securely fixed to tool 225. It may also be appreciated that attachment 205 may be shaped for specific tools. Clamping device 200 may be adjusted for coupling to various parts of step ladder 230, such as a step, rung, plurality of steps, beam, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 2C, clamping device 200 may comprise ring attachment 235. As shown, clamping device 200 may be coupled to stool 245 and configured to support beverage 240. It may also be appreciated that ring support 235 may be configure to hold and/or support various types of items. While described above as mechanically adjusted by a user, clamping device 200 may comprise a power drive means (not shown) to adjust a separation distance of the jaws. By way of example, clamping device 200 may include a button and battery actuated expanding and/or contracting of the jaws.

According to one embodiment, a plurality of clamping devices may be used together. For example, clamping device 200 may interoperate with an additional clamping device (not shown) to support one or more objects. Further, the clamping devices may have different attachments.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art. Trademarks and copyrights referred to herein are the property of their respective owners. 

1. A clamping device comprising: a first jaw coupled to a first tube member oriented along an axis; a second jaw coupled to a second tube member oriented along the axis, wherein said first and second jaws are coplaner; an expansion means for allowing adjustment of the first and second jaws; a lever configured to provide coarse adjustment of a separation distance of the first and second jaws, the lever coupled to the first tube member; a knob configured to provide fine adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws; and a coupling, coupled to the first tube member, and configured to receive an attachment.
 2. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the first and second jaws comprise a notched surface.
 3. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the expansion means comprises a threaded elongated member.
 4. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the lever is coupled to the first tube member by a bushing, the lever configured for secure coupling to and release with the expansion means.
 5. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the knob is coupled to the expansion means and configured to expand the distance between the first and second jaws based on a direction the knob is turned.
 6. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the coupling is configured to interchangeably receive one or more attachments and to provide at least one of a fixed and variable angle position of an attachment.
 7. The clamping device claim 1, further comprising an attachment coupled to the coupling, the attachment corresponding to one of a yoke, unshaped attachment, support for a stringed instrument, beverage holder and power tool holder.
 8. The clamping device claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bushings to couple the expansion means from the first and second tube members.
 9. The clamping device claim 1, further comprising a utility carrier coupled to at least one of the first and second tube members.
 10. A clamping device comprising: a first jaw coupled to a first tube member oriented along an axis; a second jaw coupled to a second tube member oriented along the axis, wherein said first and second jaws are coplaner; an elongated threaded member configured to allow for adjustment of the first and second jaws; a lever configured to provide coarse adjustment of a separation distance of the first and second jaws, the lever coupled to the first tube member; a knob configured to provide fine adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws, wherein the knob is configured to adjust separation in a fine manner; and a coupling, coupled to the first tube member, and configured to receive an attachment.
 11. The clamping device of claim 10, wherein the first and second jaws comprise a notched surface.
 12. The clamping device of claim 10, wherein the elongated threaded member is disposed within the first and second tube members.
 13. The clamping device of claim 10, wherein the lever is coupled to the first tube member by a bushing, the lever configured to securely couple and release with the elongated threaded member.
 14. The clamping device of claim 10, wherein the knob is coupled to the expansion means and configured to expand the distance between the first and second jaws based on a direction the knob is turned.
 15. The clamping device of claim 10, wherein the coupling is configured to interchangeably receive one or more attachments and to provide at least one of a fixed and variable angle position of an attachment.
 16. The clamping device claim 10, further comprising an attachment coupled to the coupling, the attachment corresponding to one of a yoke, u-shaped attachment, support for a stringed instrument, beverage holder and power tool holder.
 17. The clamping device claim 10, further comprising a plurality of bushings to couple the elongated threaded member from the first and second tube members.
 18. The clamping device claim 10, further comprising a utility carrier coupled to at least one of the first and second tube members.
 19. A clamping device comprising: a first jaw coupled to a first tube member oriented along an axis; a second jaw coupled to a second tube member oriented along the axis, wherein said first and second jaws are coplaner; an expansion means for allowing adjustment of the first and second jaws; a lever means for providing coarse adjustment of a separation distance of the first and second jaws, the lever means coupled to the first tube member; a knob means for providing fine adjustment of the separation distance of the first and second jaws; and a coupling means, coupled to the first tube member, and receiving an attachment.
 20. The clamping device of claim 19, wherein the first and second jaws comprise a notched surface.
 21. The clamping device of claim 19, wherein the lever means is coupled to the first tube member by a bushing, the lever means allowing for secure coupling and release with the expansion means.
 22. The clamping device of claim 19, wherein the knob means is coupled to the expansion means, the knob means for expanding the distance between the first and second jaws based on manipulation of the knob means.
 23. The clamping device of claim 19, wherein the coupling means allows for interchangeably receiving one or more attachments and providing at least one of a fixed and variable angle position for an attachment.
 24. The clamping device claim 19, further comprising an attachment coupled to the coupling means, the attachment corresponding to one of a yoke, u-shaped attachment, support for a stringed instrument, beverage holder and power tool holder. 